1993 Mazda MX3 from North America

Summary:

Faults:

Transmission needed to be rebuilt; luckily the dealer paid half of it.

The battery went out.

Seat belt light kept beeping. It's an automatic seat belt, and it was going to be a $500 fix (because of the part), but my mechanic got it fixed with only $50.

Not sure if this is a problem, but when I accelerate, the car kicks back; only happens when I reach about 15 mph.

Car shakes a lot when stopped, so I think I might need new motor mounts.

General Comments:

This is my first car and I love it. Besides few scratches and small dents, this car is perfect on the outside. The inside is a little worse, the glove department doesn't shut all the way and the paneling on the drivers side by my leg is coming off. Yet, this car still looks amazing.

The only thing that worries me is the kicking when accelerating, but my mechanic has driven it and hasn't said anything about it.

1993 Mazda MX3 GS 1.8L 24v DOHC V6 from North America

Summary:

Faults:

It needed two new belts and pulleys, but I knew that when I bought it. They were functional but would have eventually worn out.

General Comments:

These cars are stylish and affordable.

The handling is quite responsive without giving the driver a bumpy ride. This is due to the uniquely tuned suspension, which allows the rear wheels to turn slightly in tight corners. You can even drift an MX-3, which is unusual for a FWD.

The 1.8L V6, with 135bhp and 115ft-lbs of torque, packs enough power to seriously move the 2400lb chassis while still providing good economy. It is a lot of fun to drive, although I think the experience and the acceleration would be lessened in a model with an automatic transmission. The best MX-3s out there are the V6 with the 5-speed manual.

Unless you are used to driving very small cars, the interior room takes a little getting used to. To give you an idea, my previous two cars were a Saturn Coupe and a Honda Civic, and even by those standards I felt a little frightened by the small size of the MX-3 at first. This can be compensated for by adopting a low sitting position, moving the seat back, and tilting the back of the seat back slightly. It makes a huge difference. I am 6 feet tall and 250 pounds and I am quite comfortable in my MX-3 now, even on an eight hour drive. Get used to it and it really is plenty of room, but if you prefer the feel of an SUV or large sedan, it takes some getting used to.

Overall it has been very reliable, with no electrical or mechanical malfunctions, and no fluid leaks. I love driving this car. It looks cool, zooms around, and doesn't guzzle gas.

1993 Mazda MX3 1.5 from North America

Summary:

All in all, my little Percida does alright!

Faults:

My car has been great. I've routinely have had the oil change done on schedule. I've tried to keep up with it as much as possible, because I know from researching these cars ahead of time; if you don't look after them, they don't last.

Right away when I purchased the car, I had to replace the timing belt, the brakes shortly after, and a few tires here and there. All pretty standard stuff.

The transmission *fingers crossed* is still running great, and will keep on doing its job for a long time.

The only thing that raises an eyebrow is the fact that when accelerating up hills, it just can't go as fast as I want it to!

General Comments:

Seats are really comfortable, almost feels like they hug you when you get in!